Siemens transported 22 wind turbine nacelles and hubs this week by rail from its new wind turbine nacelle assembly facility in Hutchinson, Kan. Shipping the 87-metric-ton nacelles by train has efficiency and environmental benefits, including an up to 80% carbon footprint reduction compared to truck transportation over long distances, the company says.
The inaugural shipment of 22 wind turbine nacelles and hubs is headed to Puget Sound Energy's Lower Snake River wind project near Pomeroy, Wash., where they will be combined with blades from Siemens' Fort Madison, Iowa, wind turbine blade manufacturing facility and towers for installation.
The first phase of the wind project is expected to be 343 MW and is scheduled for completion in 2012.
In addition to the nacelles and hubs, Siemens Energy is also transporting towers and blades via rail to various projects throughout the U.S.
